Patent · US Active

Retractable column and method of forming

US9546499B2 · kind B2 · utility

4Cited by
70References
11Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventor

Key dates

Filing dateMay 12, 2014
Grant dateJan 17, 2017
Priority date
Expiry dateMay 12, 2034

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
  • CPC primaryE04H12/34
  • WIPO fieldCivil engineering
  • WIPO sectorOther fields

Abstract

The present invention is an improved apparatus and method for forming a retractable tower or column. The present invention includes pointed hooks wherein the hooks are attached to each section of a section chain, one in a horizontal direction and one in an off-set manner. The section chains are placed on a take up mechanism in an operable position and then raised utilizing a motor. As the section chains are raised, they are guided by a guide tower, rollers, shims, and gear racks into a position whereby hooks from adjacent sections of the section chains form coupled engagements. The coupled engagement of the hooks of the sections of each adjacent section chains thereby form the column.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.